NFL Trade Verdict

Pittsburgh Steelers Win

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired 1977 fifth round pick (#125-Steve Courson) from Detroit Lions for John McMakin. Analysis: Pittsburgh came away from this 1975 transaction with the stronger side of the exchange. The assets acquired from Detroit Lions provided meaningful roster value — either through direct on-field contribution, draft capital, or positional need addressed — that outpaced what was sent away.

August 21, 1975 Pittsburgh SteelersDetroit Lions Confidence: high Tier: minor

Pittsburgh Steelers Received

Trade Summary

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired 1977 fifth round pick (#125-Steve Courson) from Detroit Lions for John McMakin. Analysis: Pittsburgh came away from this 1975 transaction with the stronger side of the exchange. The assets acquired from Detroit Lions provided meaningful roster value — either through direct on-field contribution, draft capital, or positional need addressed — that outpaced what was sent away.

Trade Analysis

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired 1977 fifth round pick (#125-Steve Courson) from Detroit Lions for John McMakin. Analysis: Pittsburgh came away from this 1975 transaction with the stronger side of the exchange. The assets acquired from Detroit Lions provided meaningful roster value — either through direct on-field contribution, draft capital, or positional need addressed — that outpaced what was sent away. Detroit Lions received John McMakin and gave up 1977 fifth round pick (#125-Steve Courson). The partner grade reflects the same value curve from the opposite side of the transaction.